Adopting a Cat? What You Need to Know First.

June is a big month for cat lovers. It kicks off with American Humane’s Adopt-a-Cat Month and the ASPCA’s Adopt-a-Shelter-Cat Month, and the celebrations do not stop there: Hug Your Cat Day, National Garfield the Cat Day, Take Your Cat to Work Day, and even Cat World Domination Day all fall in June. If all that cat love has you thinking about adopting, here is what to know before you bring one home.

Cats typically live 12 to 18 years, and some reach 20 or more. Adopting a cat is a long-term commitment, both for their care and for your budget, so it is worth thinking that far ahead before you decide.

Scratching is normal and healthy for cats, not a behavior problem to train away. It helps a cat mark territory with visual and scent cues, and it helps shed old claw sheaths to keep nails in good shape. Give your cat plenty of safe, appropriate places to scratch from day one.

Cats can be particular about their litter box, and avoidance usually points to a specific cause rather than random pickiness. Common reasons include:

Litter box avoidance can also point to a medical issue, including a urinary tract infection or blockage, bladder stones, constipation, kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, arthritis, or cancer. Behavioral causes are common too: stress, boredom, anxiety, a new home or new furniture, a new person or pet in the house, or an intact cat marking territory. If a cat suddenly stops using the box, a vet visit is the right first step, not a litter change.

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their bodies are built to run on animal-based nutrients. A balanced diet covers six areas: water, animal-based protein, essential and non-essential amino acids, fats, carbohydrates, and vitamins.

Regular grooming supports your cat’s health and comfort, and it is also a simple way to build trust between you. A few short sessions a week is enough for most cats to start.

Before your new cat comes home, walk through the space and remove anything that could put them at risk, especially houseplants. Several common houseplants are toxic to cats; our guide to toxic plants for pets covers which ones to watch for.

Not every cat has the same needs. Siamese cats are highly social and vocal, and tend to need more one-on-one interaction than more independent breeds; they can become bored or stressed if left alone too often. Long-haired breeds, including Persians, Himalayans, and Maine Coons, need more grooming attention instead, since their coats mat more easily without regular brushing.

Even independent cats need real interaction and enrichment to stay mentally and physically healthy. A bored or stressed cat can become destructive, and anxious cats sometimes spray around the house. If you are away often, a pet sitter can help fill that gap.

New cats usually take longer to settle in than people expect. Give them space and patience. One easy way to build trust early on is a slow blink: close your eyes slowly while looking at your cat, and many cats will blink back. It is sometimes called a “cat kiss,” and it is a genuine way cats signal comfort with another cat, or with you.

Adopting a cat is a big decision, and a good one when you go in with your eyes open. Knowing what to expect on scratching, the litter box, nutrition, and grooming from day one makes the transition easier for both of you.

Grooming is one of the easiest ways to build trust with a new cat. The 5″ EquiGroomer removes dead hair, dust, and coat dander easily, without pulling on the skin underneath, which makes it a comfortable addition to those early bonding sessions.